Shanties on the Harlem 1881 - 1882

This etching, Shanties on the Harlem, was made by Charles A. Platt. The technique involves biting an image into a metal plate with acid, then inking and printing it. Look closely, and you’ll see how the artist used this process to great effect. Notice the variety of line weights, from the bold strokes defining the buildings to the delicate reflections in the water. Platt expertly manipulates the etching process to convey light, shadow, and texture. The image itself invites reflection. The shanties suggest a community living on the margins, perhaps laborers connected to the river. By depicting this scene, Platt draws our attention to the lives of those often overlooked in the rapid urbanization of the late 19th century. Understanding the material and process behind “Shanties on the Harlem” allows us to appreciate Platt's technical skill, while also prompting us to consider the social context in which this image was created. It's a reminder that even a humble print can offer profound insights into the world around us.